Abstract
Background: habits related to diet and physical activity in children were modified due to the lockdown that Spain had between March and June 2019 because of the health crisis caused by the appearance of SARS-CoV-2. The aim of the study was to know the impact that the lockdown had on physical fitness values in children aged 11–12. Methods: the study consisted of 50 Spanish children aged 11–12 (M = 11.40; SD = 0.50), 33 (66%) boys and 17 (34%) girls. Data collection was performed using the Alpha-Fitness Battery, a validated instrument to assess dietary intake, habits and practices, and an ad hoc survey to collect sociodemographic data and other information relevant to the study. Results: there were significant differences (p < 0.05) in the results of fitness variables measured in the standing long jump, agility speed and aerobic capacity, as well as in the results of maximal oxygen uptake (VO2 max) between, before and after lockdown in both boys and girls. No significant differences were found in measurements of right and left hand grip (p > 0.05). Conclusions: there is evidence of a significant impact of SARS-CoV-2 lockdown on physical fitness values in boys and girls aged 11–12.
Highlights
IntroductionSpain was under a large-scale home lockdown between 15 March and 21 June 2020 due to the outbreak of the SARS-CoV-2 virus to prevent its spread throughout the country
Spain was under a large-scale home lockdown between 15 March and 21 June 2020 due to the outbreak of the SARS-CoV-2 virus to prevent its spread throughout the country.The origin of this pandemic prompted the Spanish government as well as many other countries (e.g., Italy, France or Portugal) to establish various forms of home lockdown
This research shows results that demonstrate a worsening of the physical condition of 11 and 12 year old Spanish boys and girls as a consequence of the impact of the SARS-CoV-2 closure
Summary
Spain was under a large-scale home lockdown between 15 March and 21 June 2020 due to the outbreak of the SARS-CoV-2 virus to prevent its spread throughout the country. The origin of this pandemic prompted the Spanish government as well as many other countries (e.g., Italy, France or Portugal) to establish various forms of home lockdown. SARS-CoV-2, known as COVID-19, was declared an international emergency disease by the World Health Organization (WHO) only one month after its existence was known [2,3].
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